When God first showed me Jesus’ reason for going to the cross was the joy set before Him and what that meant exactly, I was simply amazed, filled with awe.
I didn’t think for a moment that there would be another such awe-inspiring moment as that for me. Yet, I should know better since God continually seeks to fill us with awe, showing us just exactly how amazing He truly is.
While doing a Bible Study, I came across a new-to-me author, whom I have come to truly enjoy. His books make me think, which means I don’t read through his writings quickly. I’ve grown to love non-fiction authors who make me ponder rather than just turn page after page.
It was through one of his books that God spoke another amazing truth to me regarding joy being set before me. Rather than discussing the joy set before Jesus, though, he was discussing the joy set before me, before us, as Christians.
Before I share this truth with you, I want you to share a few Scriptures that speak of it.
Rejoice yet in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets. Luke 6:23
How often do we read this verse and think of the “reward” being the crowns given to us for serving the Lord faithfully? Or the mansions that Jesus is building for us in heaven? However, what if that isn’t the “reward” this verse isn’t actually talking about?
And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you. John 16:22
Jesus never promised us that we would have continual joy throughout our time on earth as His children. In fact, He tells us the opposite time and time again. As Christ followers, we will have sorrow and pain, at times, we will even be hated…just as He was.
So, what is this amazing truth? Take a moment and go back to the last verse and read the latter portion.
Did you see it?!
The joy set before me, before you, as Christians, is Jesus. He is our reward.
How amazing is that?! The joy set before Jesus, His reason for going to the cross, was me and you. The joy set before you and me, our reason for striving through this gift of life we’ve been given, our reason for living courageous faith, is Jesus.
He that hath the bride is the bridgeroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled. John 3:29
When I consider myself being the joy set before Jesus as He walked up the Calvary hill, I find myself thinking about Him putting one foot in front of the other in the midst of pain and heartbreak that I can not even imagine. Still, one footstep fell after another. Because of the joy I am to my Savior.
So, while there is sorrow and pain in my days here on earth, I will strive to look ahead and see the joy set before me, Jesus. Putting one foot in front of the other, drawing closer to Him, one often stumbling footstep at a time.
Jesus is the joy set before me. Before you. He is our joyous reward.
